This award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions related to the advancement of library instruction in Texas. This award is created and awarded by the Library Instruction Round Table (LIRT) of the Texas Library Association (TLA).

Nominations will be accepted and reviewed annually but, depending on the quality of applications, an award may not necessarily be made each year.

Eligibility

Individuals nominated need not be Texas librarians, but must have significantly influenced library instruction in the state. Nominees may be employed in any type of library or other organization that relates to libraries and education. Nominations must be made for individuals, not groups.

Nomination Process

Self-nominations are encouraged and will receive equal consideration to external nominations. Nominations must include the following materials:

• Cover letter with the name, title, institution, email, phone and address of the nominated individual, as well as the same information for the nominator if a different person;
• 750-1,000 word essay explaining the background and impact of the nominee;
• Two or more letters of recommendation; and
• A reasonable amount of supporting documentation may also be included.

Submissions

Electronic submissions are required. Submissions must be received by February 19. Letters of recommendation may be sent separately but also emailed by February 19. Materials submitted with the nomination package will not be returned to the nominators.

Selection

Criteria for selection will be weighted on the application and will include, but not be limited to, factors such as:

• Impact of the nominated person on multiple libraries and educational initiatives;
• Extent of the individual’s contributions in the area; and
• Innovation of ideas or projects developed.

Notification

Representatives of the winning project will be notified within two weeks. Honorees will be announced and awarded a plaque at the LIRT program at the TLA Annual Conference. Announcements will also be submitted to TLA publications. Press releases will also be available for the institution hosting the winning project, LIRT newsletter, and LIRT web site.

Please email nominations to Joshua Salmans by February 19.